Association Between Problematic TikTok Use and Procrastination, Loneliness, and Self-Esteem: A Moderation Analysis by Sex and Generation

The aim of this study was to examine the association between problematic TikTok use and procrastination, loneliness, and self-esteem in Greece. Moreover, we performed a moderation analysis to examine potential moderators such as sex and age. We conducted a cross-sectional study with a convenience sample of 1033 TikTok users. We used the TikTok Addiction Scale to measure problematic TikTok use. Additionally, we measured procrastination, loneliness, and self-esteem with the Irrational Procrastination Scale, the UCLA 3-Item Loneliness Scale, and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, respectively. We performed moderation analysis using linear regression models. We found a positive association between problematic TikTok use, procrastination, and loneliness. Also, we found a negative association between problematic TikTok use and self-esteem. Moderation analysis showed a more prominent association between problematic TikTok use and procrastination among females and Generation Z. The association between problematic TikTok use and loneliness was stronger among males and Generation X. The association between problematic TikTok use and self-esteem was stronger among males and Generation Z. In conclusion, our study supports the negative effect of problematic TikTok use on users. Moreover, sex and gender are moderators in these associations. However, due to study limitations, further research should be conducted.